3 Things You Can Learn About Rocking a Swimsuit From Victoria's Secret Models

Because if anyone knows how to work a bikini, it's definitely these ladies

You might think that Victoria's Secret swimsuit models are immune to the anxiety that the rest of us experience when hitting the beach—or worse, swimsuit shopping. While they do feel more comfortable than many women in those situations, it's not just because they have amazing bodies (although, admittedly, they do). They've also picked up a few tricks along the way that help them look their best and—just as important—feel more confident. Try them for yourself the next time you're putting on a swimsuit:

Try on as Many Different Suits as You Can Stand
"I know it's frustrating because you can stand there and be like, 'Nothing looks good!'" says model Behati Prinsloo (pictured above at left). "But I think the more you try on—especially with the new Victoria's Secret swim collection, it's got so many styles—there' s something for everybody." Fellow model Alessandra Ambrosio agrees—and adds that it's important to try on different styles, not just different suits (because it can be easy to try on different variations on one type of swimsuit you gravitate toward and then get fed up if that's not the most flattering option for you): "I'll just put on every single kind of cut that exists if I have the time," she says. "I'll just really take my time trying to figure out what looks better for my body, and I think that's what women have to do."

Make Choices That Help You Look (and Feel) Good Right Before Your Swimwear Debut
Both models say they do Pilates year-round, but they're extra diligent about it in the couple of weeks before they have to do a swimwear shoot. "I'll just kind of pump it up maybe a week or two before the trip," says Prinsloo. "That, and also cutting out sugar, cutting out salt because it makes you retain a lot of water. It really helps a lot." Both models say they also use self-tanner and bronzer to give them a little boost—both physically and psychologically.

Have a Backup Plan
Even if you've been a regular at the gym, there still may be days when you're not feeling your hottest. Do not—we repeat, do not—let that keep you from enjoying the beach or the pool (while wearing sunscreen, of course). Remember that you're probably the only one who even notices your food baby—and if you're still feeling blah, you can always try what Ambrosio says she does when insecurities hit: "That's when I'll wear a one-piece suit or lay on the beach in a cute cover up and just keep it on."

Tell us: What tricks do you swear by to feel more confident when swimsuit season arrives? Share your suggestions in the comments!